Creme Brulee French Toast Recipe

Introduction

Creme Brulee French Toast is a decadent breakfast treat that combines the creamy richness of creme brulee with the comforting texture of French toast. Soaking thick slices of French bread overnight creates a custardy delight that bakes to golden perfection and finishes with a caramelized sugar crust.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf French bread, sliced 1-inch thick
• 5 large eggs
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• Maple syrup for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1: Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange the bread slices in a single layer.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, whole milk, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until smooth.
3. Step 3: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring each piece soaks well.
4. Step 4: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard mixture.
5. Step 5: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap, dot the bread with small pieces of butter, and sprinkle sugar over the top.
6. Step 6: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the French toast is golden and puffy.
7. Step 7: Let the dish cool slightly, then sprinkle more sugar on top and broil briefly to caramelize and create a crispy, browned sugar crust.
8. Step 8: Serve warm with maple syrup.

Tips & Variations

• Use day-old French bread for best absorption without getting too soggy.
• For a richer custard, substitute some half-and-half with heavy cream.
• Add a splash of orange liqueur or a sprinkle of zest for a citrus twist.
• Use a kitchen torch instead of the broiler for more controlled caramelization of the sugar topping.
• Serve with fresh berries to balance the sweetness.

Storage

Store any leftover creme brulee French toast covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F until warmed through to maintain texture. Avoid microwaving as it may make the sugar topping soggy instead of crispy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, though French bread works best for texture and flavor. Brioche or challah are excellent alternatives that also soak up the custard well and add richness.

What if I don’t have half-and-half?

You can substitute half-and-half with equal parts milk and cream, or use whole milk alone for a lighter version. Just note that the custard may be slightly less rich.

Creme Brulee French Toast Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 89 reviews

This Creme Brulee French Toast recipe is a delightful twist on classic French toast, featuring a rich custard soak infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, baked to golden perfection, and finished with a caramelized sugar crust reminiscent of creme brulee. Perfect for an indulgent breakfast or brunch, it balances creamy, sweet, and warm flavors with a crisp sugary topping.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 12 hours 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

French Toast Base

• 1 loaf French bread, sliced 1-inch thick

Custard Mixture

• 5 large eggs
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

For Baking

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter

To Serve

• Maple syrup

Instructions

1. Prepare the baking dish: Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking, and arrange the sliced French bread in a single layer to create an even base.
2. Make the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, whole milk, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until smooth and well combined.
3. Soak the bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring each piece is thoroughly soaked with the custard to absorb all the flavors.
4. Refrigerate overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to let the bread fully absorb the custard and develop rich flavor and custardy texture.
5. Preheat the oven: Remove the dish from the fridge and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get ready for baking.
6. Add butter and sugar before baking: Remove the plastic wrap, distribute small pieces of unsalted butter evenly over the soaked bread, and sprinkle a layer of granulated sugar on top to aid in caramelization.
7. Bake until golden: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the French toast is puffed, set, and golden brown on top.
8. Broil for the crispy sugar crust: After baking, let the French toast cool slightly, then sprinkle additional granulated sugar over the surface. Use the oven broiler to quickly caramelize the sugar, creating a crisp, golden-brown crust reminiscent of creme brulee.
9. Serve: Serve the creme brulee French toast warm with maple syrup on the side for drizzling.

Notes

• Be sure to soak the bread overnight for the best texture and flavor infusion.
• Use day-old or slightly stale French bread for optimal custard absorption without becoming mushy.
• Keep a close watch while broiling to avoid burning the sugar crust.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute half-and-half and whole milk with coconut milk or almond milk alternatives.
• The cinnamon and nutmeg can be adjusted according to your spice preference.

Keywords: Creme Brulee French Toast, French Toast, Breakfast Recipes, Baked French Toast, Custard Soaked Bread, Caramelized Sugar Topping, Brunch Recipes